The City of Norman encourages residents to follow proper recycling and waste disposal guidelines to help protect the environment, reduce landfill waste, and keep the community safe.
The City’s Sanitation Division provides curbside trash and recycling services, making it easy for residents to recycle common materials like paper, cardboard, aluminum, and plastics #1 and #2. By following established guidelines, residents can help ensure recyclable materials are processed correctly.
Residents are reminded that not all materials belong in curbside recycling carts. Items such as plastic bags, food waste, and certain plastics (#3–#7) can interfere with processing equipment and should be disposed of through proper channels instead. Learn more about recycling guidelines at www.normanok.gov/your-government/departments/utilities/sanitation/recycling-guidelines-curbside-service.
Residents are asked to pay special attention to the disposal of batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, which pose a serious safety risk if handled improperly. Improperly disposed batteries can ignite quickly when damaged or crushed.
To safely dispose of batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, residents can schedule an appointment with the City’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility, which accepts a wide range of battery types. Residents can learn more and schedule an appointment by visiting www.normanok.gov/your-government/departments/utilities/household-hazardous-waste-facility-3803-chatauqua-avenue.
“Proper disposal of waste is critical not only for environmental sustainability but also for the safety of our staff and community,” said Chris Mattingly, Utilities Director for the City of Norman. “Lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in household trash or recycling carts. Taking a few extra steps to dispose of them correctly can prevent dangerous fires and protect our waste collection systems.”
By following proper recycling practices and utilizing available resources, Norman residents can play an important role in creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable community.
For more information on recycling guidelines and disposal options, visit www.normanok.gov/residents-visitors/trash-recycling.